Trying to stock a kitchen like a pro from tv will cost you hundreds if not thousands of dollars. However, if you were to go to their home, you probably will not see all those beautiful items in immaculate condition. Most likely, you will find worn items that don't cost a fortune. The most needed items are found in restuarant supply stores for reasonable prices. Buying the same item elsewhere, may cost you twice as much or more. Take the time to find a restuarant supply store in your area if you want to save a stack of cash. In the meantime, here are the items that should be on your list of must haves for your kitchen.

The most important tool in your kitchen arsenal is a great eight-inch knife. A knife does not have to cost a hundred dollars like many manufacturers would like you to believe. Buying a simple plastic handled Dexter-Russell will cost you a whopping $10. This is actually a fantastic knife and very versatile. Besides for $10, it's worth a try.

The second item seems like a luxury. I will admit it has taken me too long to breakdown and buy one. But they are a wonderful addition to your kitchen arsenal. Just a cheap instant-read one will cost you $5-$15 depending on style. Thermometers are used for a variety of purposes, including checking your oven temperature to verify that the temperature is accurate. Many older ovens actually tend to heat at temperatures other than what is set. If you want 400 degrees, your oven may be giving you 375 degrees or 425 degrees. This may not seem like a problem, but for some dishes it's a disaster!

A plastic cutting board is not pretty, but it is dishwasher safe. This tool useful for all cutting needs and easily sanitized in the dishwasher. Of course, plastic is also cheap, so expect to spend less then $6 for a nice size one. A paring knife is also a great buy at $3 and great for creating thin slices.

Stainless steel bowls are also another great selection at $5 for a set of three thin ones. They may not be thick steel, but they get the job done and are easy to clean. Tongs are also wonderful. Many people for get to add these to their kitchen drawers and later regret it. Choose a pair that are not too long, so they are easy to handle and control. A nice pair of tongs will set you back $4.

A sheet pan is another essential. At $6, it makes a great baking sheet for roasting items and is large enough to cook a lot of cookies at once. A vegetable peeler is great for not only peeling vegetables, but also some fruits. A good peeler will cost about $3. Don't forget a can opener and a colander, each costing about $4.

A food processor is a great item if you can squeeze it into your budget. A nice large one will cost about $65, while a salad spinner can be found for $15. A heat resistant spatula, preferable rubber, a skimmer, and a big whisk are other great items to have on hand.

As for pots and pans, you can definitely go overboard! Stick with a few basic pieces and your kitchen will be more organized. It's necessary to have a small, medium, and large saucepans. Cast-aluminum saucepans are wonderful and will cost less than $50 for the three. A 10-inch nonstick pan is $13, while a large 14-inch, tall sided heavy duty steel pan will cost about $25. You can get buy with one lid for $5, if you don't mind using plates or cookie sheets when you need to.

These items are all fantastic tools for all kitchens. Sticking with the basics will keep your kitchen organized and tidy, which is especially important if you have a small kitchen. Buying one or two items at a time may be easier on the budget, and a great way to add new items. However, if you have the money, go shopping and have a blast. Just be careful while you are in a restaurant supply store. There are so many items, you may end up with more than you expected! All those cake pans can make you dizzy, but be strong. You don't need everything. But a good cake pan is nice to have!